What does it mean to "accumulate"?

The term "accumulate" refers to the process of gathering or collecting items, information, or resources over time. When something accumulates, it typically means that it builds up in quantity or magnitude through gradual addition. For example, you might accumulate wealth by saving money over several years, or you might accumulate data through ongoing research.

In contrast, the other terms signify different actions or processes. To scatter suggests distributing items across a larger area, often in a random or disorganized manner. Decreasing gradually indicates a reduction in quantity or intensity over time, while releasing or dissipating implies letting go of something or allowing it to spread out or become less concentrated. These meanings do not align with the concept of accumulating, which is fundamentally about increasing or adding to a collection.